News

Weatherman pools support for Lido campaign

CAMPAIGNERS hoping to rebuild one of Barry’s weather-dependent attractions are hopeful of a bright future forecast, following support from Derek Brockway.

The 46-year-old former Holton Primary pupil, who is known nationwide for his weather forecasts on the BBC and his popular Weatherman Walking television series and books, has given the Rebuild The Knap Lido campaign his full backing and joined the group.

Derek, who grew up in and went to school in Barry, recalled family outings to the iconic outdoor facility which attracted thousands of visitors, from both the local area and further afield, in the 1970s.

The Rebuild The Knap Lido campaign, launched on social networking site Facebook last month, was inspired by the multi-million pound restoration of Pontypridd Lido and the rise in popularity of outdoor swimming facilities throughout the UK.

Derek said: “I remember the Lido and we used to go there with the family in the 1970s. It was always so busy, packed. I was scared of the deep end because it was so deep and cold and those diving boards.

“I remember the changing rooms being a bit worse for wear. It was so popular.

“It’s a shame it’s gone and there’s just the piece of ground there. It just worries me if they build flats on it. It would be just fantastic if they could just manage to get it open again if there’s a private enterprise initiative. It would be great for the children in this era to experience what we could in the 70’s and 60’s and before that – the fantastic times we had when I was growing up

“Barry Island is up and coming again. It’s on the map. When I go down to Marco’s it’s so busy compared to what it used to be and I like to go down to Porthkerry Park and Romilly’s for a bite to eat.

“The Lido just looks so sad and empty. I don’t want flats built on it – it’s such a special place. It would be great to bring back those memories and it would be great for tourism in the Vale of Glamorgan. Bring back the Lido, bring it on.”

The Rebuild The Knap Lido group is organising a protest at the former Knap Lido site at 2.30pm on Sunday, August 10.

Organisers are urging people to set a good example by leaving cars at home or park along Romilly Park, to keep the area around the lake traffic free, and bring any water-themed items such as inflatables.

To support on Facebook, like the Rebuild The Knap Lido group and on Twitter follow @SaveKnapLido

To sign the petition, visit http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/the-vale-of-glamorgan-council-we-are-the-rebuild-the-knap-lido-group-and-we-want-you-at-the-vale-council-to-rebuild-the-knap-lido-fortwith